Tuesday 3 December 2013 06.50 EST
First published on Tuesday 3 December 2013 06.50 EST

Councils have a new responsibility this winter. The national scheme to help vulnerable people in financial trouble in the form of community care grants and crisis loans, as part of the social fund, is no longer available.

Benefit changes introduced in March saw the end of crisis loans repaid through benefits, and now councils in Britain are being given funding to provide alternatives. So, how can they protect the poorest this winter?

Those in need will face very different offers of support from councils depending on where they live. Guardian journalist Patrick Butler explored food and fuel poverty in the UK and said whether to "heat or eat" will be a big dilemma this winter for a lot of families. Butler said that anticipating an increase in demand, North Yorkshire council has extended its local assistance scheme for stricken families. Those who need help can now get free gas and electricity vouchers, as well as household goods such as fridges and beds.

Brighton & Hove city council are looking into the effectiveness of discretionary measures in supporting residents. They want to make sure any funding available is spent appropriately.

Join our live discussion on Wednesday 11 December from 12-1pm to share best practice and discuss. We will focus on the following areas.

• How can available funds be used effectively?

• What examples of best practice can councils learn from?

• How can councils work with the voluntary sector to combat these issues?

Contact sarah.marsh@theguardian.com to be considered for the expert panel.